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  • Thursday, November 20, 2025 08:42 | Amber Sneed (Administrator)

    The Women in Canmaking Association (WICA) recently hosted “If I Were an Aerosol: Releasing Purpose, Power, and Passion into the World,” featuring Alyne Silva, Executive President of the Brazilian Aerosol Association. Alyne shared a practical leadership framework built around the parts of an aerosol can, inviting attendees to examine their strengths, manage pressure, and lead with intention.

    Key Takeaways

    Your Can: Taking Care of Your Foundation

    Alyne compared the structure of an aerosol can to the strength we need in our own lives. Just as the can must be solid enough to hold pressure, we need habits that support our physical and mental well-being. She talked about her daily routine of exercising every day for 28 years and how this consistency helps her feel ready for anything in her work and leadership.

    Takeaway: Build routines that keep you grounded. A strong foundation makes you more resilient in high-pressure moments.

    Your Content: Owning Your Essence and Direction

    The contents of an aerosol represent its purpose. Alyne encouraged members to think about their own inner content and what truly motivates them. She shared how her career shifted when she realized she enjoyed developing people as much as engineering. That clarity helped her set a clear direction and eventually become the first woman president of ABAS in nearly 60 years.

    Takeaway: Understanding your motivations helps you make better decisions about your career and leadership.

    Pressure as Propellant: Turning Stress into Opportunity

    Alyne described one of the biggest challenges she faced early in her role when aerosols in Brazil were suddenly classified as hazardous waste. Instead of treating the crisis as a setback, she approached it as an opportunity to collaborate, learn, and lead change. She told members that pressure can become a propellant when you choose to see it that way.

    Takeaway: Stressful moments can move you forward. Reframing pressure can help you find solutions instead of roadblocks.

    Your Valve: Protecting Emotional Balance

    Just as an aerosol valve controls the flow of the product, leaders need practices that help them stay balanced. Alyne shared simple habits such as reviewing her goals, noting what she is grateful for, and taking small moments to pause before reacting. These routines help her stay calm and focused even during difficult periods.

    Takeaway: Emotional balance comes from consistent habits that help you stay steady during high-pressure moments.

    Your Spray: The Impact You Leave Behind

    The final part of Alyne’s analogy focused on the “spray,” or the impact you leave behind. She highlighted how efforts across ABAS, including new training programs, partnerships, and sustainability work, helped expand the organization’s reach. She reminded members that when your foundation, purpose, energy, and balance are aligned, your impact becomes much stronger.

    Takeaway: Your influence grows when your actions and values work together.

    Final Thoughts

    Alyne Silva’s session offers a practical and memorable way to think about leadership. Her session reminds us that lasting impact begins when we take the time to understand ourselves, embrace our passions, and act with intention. 

  • Tuesday, November 11, 2025 12:48 | Amber Sneed (Administrator)

    One theme that continues to emerge in our Women Who Can Membership Spotlight blog is the unanticipated journey that leads women into our beloved metal packaging industry. This sentiment rings true for Bianca Marosi, who we are excited to feature in this segment of the WICA Membership Spotlight!

    Currently, Bianca holds the position of Enterprise Development Manager at Green Worldwide Shipping LLC. In this role, Bianca is tasked with being what she describes as a “strategic problem solver,” delivering tailored solutions across areas such as customs compliance, ocean freight, warehousing, and cost-saving initiatives like Duty Drawback and Foreign Trade Zones.

    When asked what she loves most about her work, Bianca says, “Who doesn’t love the end result, when the freight makes it to its final destination on time and meets the expectations set? Honestly, I love being a problem solver.” Her enthusiasm for overcoming challenges shines through, especially when reflecting on early obstacles in her career: “Can I say being a woman in freight forwarding? (Her response to the question "What is a challenge you have had to overcome?") The beginning of my career was not paved; I had to bring my willingness to learn and push at boundaries in order to be taken seriously.”


    Bianca’s advice to other women in the industry is clear and encouraging: “Identify what draws you to this industry and build upon it. Ask the questions, say when you need help, and be open to challenges.” She acknowledges the mentors who have guided her along the way, specifically highlighting Martha Rojas, WICA’s cofounder, who “took the time to introduce me to the canmaking industry and guide me to understand its intricacies.”

    Being part of the WICA community is, for Bianca, both professional and personal: “It means having a supportive network of individuals who share common experiences and values. It’s empowering to know that we’re all here to uplift one another—sharing insights, offering guidance, and helping each other grow both personally and professionally.”


    Bianca’s story exemplifies the unplanned yet rewarding paths that often lead women into the canmaking industry. Her testimony is a reminder that curiosity, perseverance, and a willingness to tackle challenges head-on can open doors to meaningful and impactful careers. Through her work and her participation in WICA, Bianca continues to inspire, showing that the right mix of determination, mentorship, and community support can help women thrive in this dynamic industry.

  • Thursday, October 02, 2025 11:57 | Amber Sneed (Administrator)

    The Women in Canmaking Association (WICA) recently hosted “Courageous Conversations: Finding Your Voice,” featuring Laurie Calzada. This session gave members practical advice on building confidence, navigating difficult discussions, and advocating for themselves in both professional and personal settings.



    Key Takeaways:

    Owning Your Voice is a Process
    Laurie reminded us that confidence doesn’t appear overnight. It develops through practice, preparation, and a willingness to step into conversations that might feel uncomfortable at first. Courageous conversations often start with small steps like asking questions, clarifying expectations, or speaking up in a meeting. 

    Preparation Builds Confidence
    When you anticipate challenging discussions, whether it’s asking for a raise, addressing conflict, or asserting your opinion, spend time preparing. Laurie encouraged participants to map out their key points in advance, anticipate potential pushback, and practice how they want to frame their message. Preparation helps reduce anxiety and builds credibility.

    Listen as Much as You Speak
    Courageous conversations are not about dominating the discussion. Laurie emphasized active listening, acknowledging the other person’s perspective, asking thoughtful questions, and making space for dialogue. Listening helps shift the conversation from confrontation to collaboration.

    Reframe Fear as Opportunity
    It’s natural to feel nervous, but Laurie suggested reframing fear as a sign that the moment matters. Instead of seeing discomfort as a roadblock, consider it an opportunity for growth. By leaning into these moments, women strengthen their presence and expand their influence.

    Your Voice is a Tool for Change
    Laurie closed with an important reminder: our voices matter not only for our personal advancement, but for creating workplaces and communities where women feel empowered to lead. Each time we speak up, we contribute to a culture of inclusion and respect.

    ______________________________

    Final Thoughts
    This session with Laurie Calzada left attendees with tangible strategies for finding and using their voice with courage. Whether it’s advocating for yourself at work, navigating tough conversations at home, or leading in your community, your voice is one of your strongest tools.


  • Thursday, September 11, 2025 09:41 | Amber Sneed (Administrator)

    Sometimes careers take us in directions we never expected. For Jessica Barnett, that path led her to the canmaking industry, where she has quickly found purpose, growth, and community.

    Jessica serves as an Electrical Designer at Roeslein & Associates, a role she discovered unexpectedly but one that now feels like the perfect fit. She shares, “I unexpectedly found my way to the canmaking industry, but now I can’t imagine being anywhere else.”

    What she enjoys most is seeing her designs take shape in the real world. The process of starting with a concept, developing detailed plans, and watching those ideas transform into something tangible keeps her motivated and inspired.

    “There’s something incredibly satisfying about starting with a concept, developing the plans, and then watching the final build take shape. It’s rewarding to know that my work plays a part in something tangible and functional.”

    When asked about the biggest challenges she's faced so far in her career, Jessica recounts her experience with coordinating across multiple disciplines on a fast-moving project. Frequent changes made it difficult to stay aligned, but she turned the situation into a learning experience. By setting up regular check-ins, improving communication, and using real-time markups to track updates, Jessica and her team reduced rework and built stronger collaboration. She says the experience taught her “the value of proactive coordination and flexibility in design.”


    When asked what advice she would give to other women entering the industry, Jessica’s message is clear and encouraging:

    “Don’t be afraid to ask questions and learn as much as you can early on. This industry has a lot of knowledge to pick up, and most people are happy to share if you show interest. Don’t be discouraged if you’re one of the few women in the room because your perspective is valuable, and your work matters. Stay curious, be confident in what you bring, and take every opportunity to grow.”

    Jessica also credits mentorship as a key part of her development. She points to her manager, Mike Foster, as someone who has continually guided and supported her. His feedback and encouragement have helped her strengthen her technical skills and grow in confidence as she continues to build her career.

    Finally, being a member of WICA has given Jessica both inspiration and community. With just a year of experience in the industry, she values the chance to learn from others who have been in the field longer and to see the different paths women have taken.

    “To me, it’s about building connections, gaining confidence, and being part of a group that wants to see each other succeed.”

    Jessica’s journey shows how mentorship, community, and passion can come together to create a fulfilling career. Her story reflects the kind of growth and support that WICA strives to encourage, reminding us that when women have the tools and connections they need, they can thrive in every part of the canmaking industry.


  • Tuesday, August 26, 2025 09:47 | Amber Sneed (Administrator)

    We’re pleased to introduce our new segment of the WICA blog, where we'll highlight the achievements, goals, and ideas of our beloved women in canmaking community!

    One of WICA's main goals has always been to amplify the voices of the women in our industry. The WICA Membership Spotlight allows us to realize that goal, while also providing an opportunity for our members to get to know one another and share in the celebration of our collective successes and aspirations.


    This month, we’re proud to feature Renata Juvillar, Business Development Executive at EKL Machine. Renata’s story is a testament to the unexpected paths that can lead to a career in canmaking and the power of mentorship and curiosity in shaping professional growth.

    An Unexpected Beginning
    Renata didn’t set out to work in canmaking — her background was in the energy and oil & gas sectors, where she specialized in logistics and complex project management. A chance opportunity with industry leader Martha Rojas introduced her to canmaking, when she supported a logistics proposal for a major canmaker. That project opened the door to the industry, and Renata has been building her career here ever since.

    What Fuels Her Passion
    At EKL Machine, Renata thrives on the variety of opportunities her role provides. From 2-piece food cans to 3-piece specialty products, every project offers something new to learn. She shares that, “The more I learn, the more passionate and invested I become,” highlighting how her role has expanded well beyond logistics into every vertical of the industry.

    Overcoming Challenges
    Like many women entering a technical field, Renata faced a steep learning curve. While she understood logistics inside and out, the technical aspects of machinery and engineering were new to her. Thanks to the support of her team at EKL, she’s been able to grow her confidence and knowledge, proving that adaptability and openness to learning are key to success.

    Advice for Women in Canmaking
    Renata encourages other women to explore the industry with curiosity and confidence. “This is a truly fascinating industry — one where relationships matter and collaboration thrives,” she says. With a spirit of camaraderie that extends even across competitors, Renata believes there’s a place for anyone willing to learn and contribute.

    The Power of Mentorship
    Renata credits much of her career inspiration to Martha Rojas, who first opened the door for her and has remained a role model ever since. Martha’s leadership and reputation in the industry continue to inspire Renata to reach higher and invest fully in her own path.

    What WICA Means to Renata
    For Renata, WICA represents belonging and empowerment. “Being part of WICA means belonging to a network of strong, talented women who support each other in an industry that hasn’t always been diverse,” she reflects. Together, she believes, WICA members are helping shape a stronger and more inclusive future for canmaking.

    Renata’s journey reminds us that careers in canmaking can start in unexpected places — and that with curiosity, mentorship, and persistence, women can thrive in every corner of this industry. Her story reflects exactly what WICA stands for: connection, empowerment, and the celebration of women shaping the future of canmaking.


  • Tuesday, July 08, 2025 02:34 | Zoe Fryday (Administrator)
    • “Be bold and be brave.” That was the empowering message from Emily Mullins, Head of Metal Packaging for North America and Mexico at Henkel, during the Women in Canmaking Association (WICA)’s Q2 Fireside Chat.

      The session, held virtually via Zoom on Thursday 26th June, coincided perfectly with International Women in Engineering Day, drawing an incredible turnout. 38 WICA members and invited guests joined to hear Emily’s story and engage in a thoughtful, candid conversation.

      If you couldn’t make it this time, don’t worry, here’s a recap of the session…

      From Engineer to Executive: Emily’s Career Journey

      Emily began her career with Henkel in 2001 as a Process Engineer. Over 24 years, she transitioned through marketing, global strategy, and now leads the metal packaging business across North America and Mexico.

      “The biggest turning point for me was when I moved from the operations side to the business side,” said Emily. “That pivot led me into a really rewarding career.”

      But that leap wasn’t accidental – it was driven by curiosity and a willingness to embrace change. Emily earned her MBA while working full-time, before starting her family, and used that as a launching pad into business leadership.

      Finding Your Advocates

      Mentorship and sponsorship emerged as standout topics during the session. Emily emphasized the difference between mentors (who guide) and sponsors (who advocate for you behind closed doors), and encourages others to seek those relationships proactively.


      Emily explained: “My mentor Eric took a chance hiring an engineer for a marketing role. He gave me visibility, responsibility, and believed in me before I believed in myself.”

      When asked the best way to find a mentor, she urged: “Don’t wait for a formal mentorship program. Ask someone you admire to chat over coffee.”

      Navigating the Industry

      Throughout the 1-hour Fireside Chat, Emily offered tangible advice to women at all career stages, delivering a powerful reminder: “You belong at the table. Your voice matters.”

      → Take calculated risks. Don’t wait until you’re “100% ready”.
      → Build a personal board of advisors. Trusted peers can offer honest feedback and support.
      → Own your development. Seek out training and stretch opportunities, even if not assigned.



    • Balancing Work and Life


      Emily doesn’t believe in perfect balance. Instead, she practices intentional integration.

      She earned her MBA before having children and, early in her career, set a hard boundary: at 5pm, she logged off and shifted focus to her family. One creative example of integration? Joining her son’s karate class. They earned their black belts together!

      “You’ll never finish everything,” Emily reminds us. “Prioritise what matters and be intentional with your time.”

      Today, with hybrid work environments blurring lines, she reinforces the need for even firmer boundaries and conscious prioritization.

      24 Years at Henkel

      Emily’s long tenure at Henkel is a testament to the company’s culture and opportunities.

      “Henkel offered me growth, a values-based culture, and a global network,” she said. “When you find a company that fits, it’s worth staying and building within.”

      Her reasons for staying:

      Roles across disciplines and geographies
      A culture grounded in sustainability, inclusion, and innovation
      Long-term relationship-building and internal mobility

    Driving Innovation: Sustainability and AI

    Emily’s passion for sustainability is deeply tied to her professional mission. In fact, Henkel’s early environmental leadership was one of the reasons she joined the company.

    Today, she helps bring to market innovations like low-temperature cleaners that cut energy and water usage for customers, contributing to broader climate goals.

    Emily is also embracing the rise of artificial intelligence (AI), both in Henkel’s process control systems and in her personal workflow.

    “AI is the cool, emerging technology that’s going to change our industry, and how we work,” she predicts.

    Community Matters

    Emily spoke passionately about the importance of community and connection, especially for women in male-dominated industries like canmaking and metal packaging.

    “It’s powerful to be in a space where women in our industry support each other. There aren’t many of us, so community matters,” she stated.

    Whether through formal mentorship or informal chats, she encouraged continued learning, networking, and mutual support through WICA.

    As the session wrapped up, Emily left the audience with words that encapsulated the spirit of the conversation – and of WICA itself: “Be bold and be brave. It doesn’t have to be the perfect time or perfect fit. Take the leap.”

    Stay Connected with WICA

    Thank you once again to everyone who attended our Q2 Fireside Chat with Emily Mullins. Keep an eye on our events page for all upcoming WICA events. We will be announcing our Q3 speaker soon!


  • Sunday, May 04, 2025 09:13 | Zoe Fryday (Administrator)

    Since its launch in September 2024, WICA has been on a global journey, attending key canmaking events to raise visibility and forge connections. The latest stop? Cannex Fillex de las Américas, held at the Colorado Convention Center in Denver, USA from 29th April to 1st May 2025.

    As one of the leading international exhibitions for canmakers, fillers, and their suppliers, Cannex Fillex – organized by industry publication The Canmaker – offered an ideal platform for WICA to introduce its mission, engage with industry professionals and build momentum.

    While Cannex Fillex has been a key fixture in the industry since 1994, this year marked WICA’s first-ever appearance. Representing the non-profit association were President Sarah Davidson and Social Media Creator Amber Sneed, who were both eager to connect, learn, and share the impact WICA is working to make.

    “As our first time attending, I don’t think Amber or I were entirely sure what to expect,” said Sarah. “But it quickly became clear that Cannex Fillex was the right place for WICA to be. The level of engagement from both women and men in our industry confirmed that WICA’s mission resonates across borders and business lines. It exceeded my expectations in the best way!”

    Throughout the event, Sarah and Amber had meaningful conversations with attendees from around the world. Some were already familiar with WICA, eager to get more involved, while others were hearing about the association for the first time.

    Sarah reflected: “Those impromptu conversations that started with curiosity and ended 30+ minutes later with genuine excitement and shared ideas were some of the most energizing moments of the event.”


    Several recurring themes – connection, visibility, and growth – stood out across the three days of Cannex Fillex. These align perfectly with WICA’s current priorities: launching a formal mentorship program; creating an industry awards initiative to honor trailblazing women; amplifying visibility through regular recognition across the WICA platform; expanding STEM education outreach; and providing scholarships to support women entering or advancing in canmaking.

    The response WICA received at the event was overwhelmingly positive. Nearly every woman Sarah and Amber spoke with expressed how timely and needed these initiatives are.

    Equally impactful were the personal moments – finally meeting face-to-face with women previously only known through virtual calls. This led to rich conversations sharing stories about working in the industry, the opportunities ahead, and the impact WICA could have.

    Sarah explained: “There’s something powerful about meeting like-minded women – it recharges you. We really seem to be breaking down barriers and building momentum. The Canmaker was so welcoming, and our experience this year confirmed that Cannex is an important platform for WICA. We’d love to deepen our involvement, as we see this as the start of a long and valuable relationship.”

    Thank you Cannex. We'll see you next time!

    www.cannexfillex.com

    Start your WICA membership today

    You can learn more about becoming a WICA member by clicking here. Alternatively, get in touch with the team directly by emailing enquiries@womenincanmakingassociation.org

  • Wednesday, March 12, 2025 08:52 | Zoe Fryday (Administrator)

    PPG proudly celebrates the women leading its Packaging Coatings business, driving innovation across sales, technical, marketing and sustainability roles. Let’s meet the women in PPG’s Packaging Coatings business, who share their journeys, challenges and advice for the next generation.

    While many women are making their debut in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) jobs each day, women remain underrepresented in STEM roles and have even less representation in STEM leadership roles.

    According to the Global Gender Gap report, women make up 29.2% of STEM jobs compared to nearly 50% of non-STEM roles and only 12.4% have C-suite level roles across the 146 nations.

    Courtney Deemer

    Courtney Deemer, General Manager of the Americas, oversees PPG’s Packaging Coatings business in the United States, Canada, and South America. 

    Can you share your journey to your current role at PPG?

    “Although I studied Chemical Engineering, my first job was in sales. I progressed through a variety of commercial roles throughout my career, but I stayed in sales because I really enjoy the challenge of understanding our customers’ needs, problems and how we can help support their success. Customers are our lifeblood, and without them, we wouldn’t exist.”

    What should young women aspiring to serve in leadership roles do to be successful?

    “Build a strong network of peers and leaders to provide guidance. Act as a sounding board for challenges and brainstorms. Be comfortable getting uncomfortable. You can’t be afraid to fail, as that’s where personal growth happens.”

    What advice would you give to your younger self?

    “Don’t be afraid to speak up and have a voice. It may be intimidating, especially if you don’t fit the mould of everyone else in the room, but diverse thinking often leads to the best ideas and teams!”

    Jenica Eisenbach

    Jenica Eisenbach, Technical Service Director, is responsible for ensuring Packaging Coatings’ customers receive the best on-site support from our technical service teams.

    Tell us about your career path to PPG.

    “I previously worked at one of the largest beer companies in the world, where I was fortunate to have many roles within the brewing and packaging process, although I spent a majority of my career on the aluminium packaging side of the business. I got to know PPG and their technical service team through working with them, and when an opportunity to work at PPG emerged, I couldn’t pass it up.”

    What are some of the biggest challenges facing the packaging industry today?

    “One of the biggest challenges is preparing for the future.  Every change to the can, including the shape, size, fill and reduced materials of concern (MOCs), impacts the coating performance. Our team works diligently to stay knowledgeable about industry changes and customer innovations in order to predict and deliver future solutions.”

    What advice would you give to aspiring students?

    “Both fields are some of the most innovative and opportunistic fields, and it is fantastic to see an increased interest across young women and previously underrepresented demographics. While highly rewarding, this industry is not for everyone. 

    “To rise to the leadership level, you must understand your products and their impact, how to receive feedback (both positive and negative), and how to translate that into what you need to excel. My advice is to learn as much as you can and never stop learning.”

    Melissa MacDonald

    Melissa MacDonald, Global Sustainability Manager, works with PPG’s Packaging Coatings team and customers to drive sustainable solutions.

    What steps did you take to get to your current role at PPG?

    “I earned my PhD in organic chemistry, followed by a postdoctoral in chemical biology, which led me to start as a research chemist at PPG’s Coating Innovation Center (CIC). I originally worked in PPG’s Industrial Coatings business, conducting research and collaborating with other scientists, which eventually led to a Product Development Manager role in PPG’s Automotive Coatings business. After four years, I decided to challenge myself in a new industry and joined PPG’s Packaging Coatings business.”


    Can you highlight any recent advancements or initiatives that are helping shape the future of packaging solutions? 

    “Sustainability-focused consumers are looking to make choices with a lower carbon footprint, and metal packaging is a great option because of its ability to be infinitely recyclable. Coatings are used to protect the metal from the food, beverage, or personal care products contained.

    “Because of this, PPG is actively working to ensure our coatings have low carbon footprints and excellent performance that will enable our customers, in many cases, to produce less waste and emissions.”

    Any advice to your younger self?

    “Be confident and trust your gut. When you trust yourself, you’ll rarely have regrets.”

    Viktoria (Viki) Tager

    Viktoria (Viki) Tager, Global Strategic Market Manager for Easy-Open Ends (EOE), works closely with the team to deliver solutions to customers.

    Tell us about your career path to PPG.

    “I had my first internship in the coatings industry when I was sixteen years old, and ever since, I have wanted to focus on developing paint and coatings. This led me to earn my master's degree in Polymer Science and spend the past 18 years in a technical leadership role developing coatings technologies.

    “I’m passionate about packaging because it’s one of the most undervalued but technically difficult areas in the coatings industry due to the advanced technology required for food contact approvals, long development timelines and qualification cycles.”

    How is the team in PPG’s Packaging Coatings business working to address challenges in the industry through leadership and collaboration?

    “Our team collaborates with customers across the entire metal packaging value chain to prepare for the future. We’re also engaged in the industry through a variety of market outlets and events. Most importantly, we develop robust technology that will be around for a long time because of our preparation for the industry’s future.”

    What advice would you give young women aspiring to leadership roles in packaging or STEM fields?

    “We need you. The industry needs empathetic leaders who can bring balance and the right mindset to handle many moving parts at the same time.”

    PPG’s Packaging Coatings business is proud to have many impactful women team members at all levels, many of whom are passionate about helping inspire younger generations to consider a career in STEM jobs across the globe.

  • Tuesday, March 04, 2025 05:31 | Zoe Fryday (Administrator)

    From 24th to 26th February, the global metal packaging community gathered in Dubai for the first-ever World Can Experience. The event welcomed over 300 professionals, uniting canmakers and suppliers for three days of insightful discussions, technical expertise, and unparalleled networking opportunities.

    The Women in Canmaking Association (WICA) was proud to attend and play a significant role in shaping the conversations around inclusivity and diversity within the industry. Representing our non-profit association were Co-founders Janis Osborn and Martha Rojas, who had a fantastic time connecting with women across the sector and exchanging insights.


    Dubai meets WICA 

    On the afternoon of Wednesday 26th February, Janis and Martha took to the stage to deliver a presentation introducing WICA, our mission, and our vision for the future. The discussion highlighted the importance of empowering women within the industry and the need for continued advocacy to ensure gender diversity in leadership and technical roles, with insights into WICA’s upcoming event and content program for 2025.

    A milestone moment!

     

    To our surprise, during Tuesday night’s dinner, Janis and Martha both received a prestigious award for their efforts in promoting diversity and inclusion in the industry. The recognition served as a testament to WICA’s ongoing mission to foster opportunities for women in canmaking. We couldn't be prouder – these awards are dedicated to the whole team working behind the scenes, including fellow Co-founder Sarah Davison!

    2025 success and plans for 2026

    World Can Experience’s Director Fernando Fuentes expressed his delight at the overwhelming success of this inaugural edition. “Breaking the 300-attendee mark in our first edition is truly incredible,” he said. “I believe people have appreciated the event as a whole – a young team with innovative ideas and a different, fresh approach.”

    With its debut event exceeding expectations, World Can Experience is set to return in 2026, promising even more opportunities for learning, networking, and innovation. For WICA, this event marked an important step in increasing visibility for women in the industry, and we look forward to building on this momentum in future editions.

    Thank you for having us, World Can Experience. We look forward to next year’s event!

    www.worldcanexperience.com


  • Thursday, February 06, 2025 06:20 | Zoe Fryday (Administrator)

    The Women in Canmaking Association (WICA) couldn't do it without our generous sponsors. From the very start, Steelforce Packaging has stood by us as a proud TrailblazHER Sponsor. But what makes this partnership so meaningful to Steelforce?

    Founded in Antwerp, Belgium, with offices in Europe, Latam and North America, Steelforce Packaging is the largest global, non-producing seller of raw materials for metal packaging, backed by over 50 years of expertise in metal trading and exporting. Partnering with top global brands, the company offers coil, sheet, ingot, and slugs, supported by three processing plants, 36 warehouses, and extensive distribution worldwide.

    Steelforce believes in the power of diversity and inclusivity to drive innovation and progress in the canmaking and metal packaging sector. This, Senior Marketing Manager Kelley Kaezyk explains, is what inspired the company’s partnership with WICA. “WICA’s mission to support and advance women perfectly with our values,” says Kelley. “By sponsoring WICA, we are investing in a future where diverse voices and perspectives are not only welcomed but are integral to our industry’s growth. This partnership reflects our commitment to fostering an environment where everyone can thrive and contribute to the success of the sector.”


    Supporting and Empowering Women

    There are several initiatives to support women at Steelforce. The organisation has implemented targeted recruitment campaigns to attract more female talent and ensure equitable hiring practices. In addition, comprehensive training programs have been established to equip employees with essential skills and leadership qualities.

    Empowerment is a key pillar of WICA’s mission, and this also plays a crucial role in Steelforce’s company culture. “We encourage mentorship opportunities that allow experienced leaders to provide guidance, support, and career advice,” states Kelley. “Our training programs focus on critical skills such as strategic thinking, decision-making, and effective communication. We also encourage participation in industry conferences and workshops to facilitate continuous learning and professional growth.”

    Recognizing the need to inspire future generations, Steelforce offers apprenticeships and internships that provide hands-on experience and exposure to the canmaking and metal packaging sector. The company also collaborates with schools and universities to raise awareness about career opportunities in the field.

    Employee Success Story: Katty Suarez Gomez

    One inspiring story is that of Katty Suarez Gomez, Quality Assistant at Steelforce Packaging Industrial Colombia. With a background in Industrial Production Management and Industrial Engineering, Katty has been instrumental in maintaining quality standards in flexible packaging and food canning packaging since 2014.

    At Steelforce, she tackles challenges related to chemical composition, mechanical properties, and equipment parameters with precision and dedication. Katty believes in the power of engineering to create a sustainable and responsible world. “Her contributions and leadership exemplify the significant impact that women bring to our industry, promoting innovation, and progress,” says Kelley.


    A Vision for a More Inclusive Future

    Looking ahead, Steelforce plans to expand its efforts in promoting gender diversity and inclusivity through long-term initiatives. These include strengthening mentorship and leadership development programs to ensure more women have access to career advancement opportunities. "Our vision is to lead by example and demonstrate that a diverse workforce is a key driver of innovation and success in canmaking and metal packaging," concludes Kelley.

    Through its sponsorship of WICA, Steelforce Packaging is playing an active role in fostering a more equitable and dynamic industry. The company’s continued efforts will help shape a future where women’s contributions are recognized, valued, and celebrated across all facets of the canmaking world. We thank you for your continued support.


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